Best Last Minute Gifts: E-Gift Cards and E-Certificates

Instant Digital Gift Ideas for Procrastinating Internet Shoppers

E-gifts have become increasingly popular these days, especially because of their last-minute appeal. Ordering and paying for a gift from the luxury of your home (or local coffee shop) has pushed the e-commerce world to new heights. Not only is this form of shopping easy and convenient, it makes buying a last-minute gift possible.

Some e-gift cards even include special features, like offering several different designs, and letting you add personal photos and even video messages. You can choose custom dollar amounts for some as well, and set up a specific delivery time and date for your gift to arrive to the lucky recipient's email.

Many online e-gift sites let you see how the gift looks when it's received, so that you can see it as the recipient sees it. Many stores can also help you send an e-gift card from the store the next time you stop by; just walk in an ask the staff for help.

If you're not on the e-gift card and e-gift certificate bandwagon, it's time to think about joining the fold. Beyond the convenience that e-gift cards and e-gift certificates provide, they are becoming an essential offering for the largest U.S. retail chains who want to capture their share of the annual $200 billion e-gift card market.

The only caveat is to take your time when ordering your gift. The e-gift card issuer's obligation is fulfilled when digital delivery is successful, regardless of whether or not you entered the correct contact information and address for your recipient.To help you in your e-gifting, here's a comprehensive list of e-commerce websites that offer e-gift cards and e-gift certificates. These can be purchased online and delivered digitally via email, SMS text, social media and via smartphone apps. This list is arranged by categories, according to the type of merchandise each retailer sells.